TALKING

Key takeaways

• AI solutions implemented as random projects on random tools do not scale .

• Generative AI tools are evolving to enable AI agents , which are poised to revolutionise how we engage with AI systems .

• Enterprise AI is simply the application of AI technology to a company ’ s most impactful processes in its most important areas .

• Enterprises must determine the minimum set of AI systems needed to build a reusable and scalable AI foundation .

• AI ’ s true potential lies in its connections with other emerging technologies .

• AI ’ s impact multiplies when combined with quantum computing , intelligent Edge , Zero Trust , 6G technologies and digital twins .

• We now see the AI PC not just as a client device but part of the end-to-end AI infrastructure .

• With agentic architectures , we expect to shift agents out of the data centre and onto the Edge or to the AI PC .

• Zero Trust architectures are the best path to a more secure world and implementing Zero Trust in brownfield legacy IT is hard .

• We expect customers to adopt Zero Trust by default in new AI factories for optimal security .

To execute prioritised projects , enterprises have multiple off-the-shelf tools from which to choose . So , in 2025 the preferred path is to buy and implement AI tools in their private infrastructure . They can also buy tools that accelerate data modernisation , data meshes , for example , and with the Dell AI Factory advancements over the past year , the infrastructure is now simple to adopt and implement .

In 2025 , we have clear , repeatable approaches for prioritisation and more turnkey and well-defined AI platforms and AI infrastructure options . 2025 is a year when it simply becomes easier to know what to do and how to do it when adopting AI in the enterprise space .

AI and emerging technologies

AI ’ s true potential lies in its connections with other emerging technologies . While AI itself is transformative , its impact multiplies when combined with quantum computing , intelligent Edge , Zero Trust security , 6G technologies and digital twins , to name a few . This fusion creates a dynamic environment ripe for innovation and addressing existing challenges .

For instance , quantum computing in collaboration with AI will significantly impact most industries by providing the computing capability needed to scale AI to domains where classical computing struggles – like complex material science , drug discovery and complex optimisation problems .

AI and telecom are already coming together to transform how cellular networks operate and how fundamental elements of these systems , like spectrum optimisation , work . Even the future of the PC is influenced by AI , as we now see the AI PC not just as a client device but part of the end-to-end AI infrastructure . With agentic architectures , we expect to shift agents out of the data centre and onto the Edge or to the AI PC .

Zero Trust security and AI also are intersecting . Zero Trust architectures are the best path to a better , more secure world and implementing Zero Trust in brownfield legacy IT is hard . In contrast , AI infrastructure is new and greenfield . We expect customers to adopt Zero Trust by default in new AI factories for optimal security . Given the criticality of AI , which is a good thing for all of us .

Sovereign AI accelerates global adoption

Sovereign AI efforts are accelerating AI adoption worldwide . This concept revolves around a nation ’ s ability to create AI value and differentiation using its own infrastructure and data , designing an ecosystem aligned with local culture , language and intellectual property . In an era where data security is paramount , countries are opting for sovereign AI strategies and solutions , often with strong collaboration between the public and private sectors .

Instead of AI systems exclusive to governments , some countries are developing national AI resources to serve both government and local private industry , providing access to compute power and data capacity . Others are implementing a coherent national strategy where governments do not necessarily build new infrastructure but instead proactively and collaboratively co-design and encourage private industry to modernise and lead AI ecosystems .

Sovereign AI empowers nations to increase accessibility , protect critical infrastructure , drive economic growth , and enhance global competitiveness . By fostering the development of AI , it accelerates its adoption . We are seeing growing investments directed toward infrastructure , data management , talent cultivation , and ecosystem development – and we fully expect to see this trend continue in the years ahead .

In 2025 , we predict enterprise AI adoption will accelerate dramatically in the coming year . We are seeing better processes , better tools and a stronger ecosystem . For CIOs , staying informed and adaptable will be essential . Organisations must prioritise AI fluency , invest in talent development and explore innovative solutions to remain at the forefront of this tech revolution . p

32 INTELLIGENTCIO AFRICA www . intelligentcio . com